Ankle fractures are very common injuries and since they are articular fractures, a treatment is needed to restore the normal anatomy of the joint to prevent the development of secondary osteoarthritis.
The ligaments of the ankle are vital for the stability of the joint and for that reason it should be considered as important as the bone when treating this type of injuries.
The mechanism of injury is usually twisted and according to the position of the foot at the time of injury: supination or pronation type of fracture and treatment is different.
In case of non-displacement injuries, they can be treated conservatively by immobilization 4-6 weeks of plaster and subsequent rehabilitation.
In case of fracture with displacement of the bone fragments, a correct reduction and restoration of the anatomy of the mortise with plate and screw fixation is necessary, which allows joint mobilization in the immediate postoperative period without the need to immobilize it using a plaster splint. receive discharge directly from the room to wake up or enter for pain treatment keeping your foot up.
There is the possibility of postoperative placement by an orthopedic surgeon who allows the load with full support of the foot practically immediately.
The patient comes to the revision at 10 days to remove the stitches and the bandage and according to the type of osteosynthesis the progressive loading with crutches is allowed.
The passive exercises are insisted on the first weeks and active after the 3rd or 4th week and the x-rays are repeated at 6-8 weeks to check the consolidation of the fracture and allow physical activity of little impact such as cycling, swimming and some 3-4 months for competitive athletic activity.